Eastbourne

Seaside resort approximately 27 kms (17 miles) south-west of Hastings.

Link: Visit Eastbourne
Episode: Eagle Day, Fifty Ships


Emergency Powers (Defence) Act, 1939

Emergency Powers (Defence) Act, 1939 (2 & 3 Geo. 6. c. 62) Long title: An Act to confer on His Majesty certain powers which it is expedient that His Majesty should be enabled to exercise in the present emergency; and to make further provision for purposes connected with the defence of the realm. Date of Royal Assent: 24th August 1939.

This gave wide-ranging powers for the making by Order in Council of such regulations as seemed to be necessary or expedient "for securing the public safety, the defence of the realm, the maintenance of public order and the efficient prosecution of any war in which His Majesty may be engaged, and for maintaining supplies and services essential to the life of the community".

This included the power to requisition land and evict the civilian inhabitants. Some one million acres were requisitioned in this way throughout the war.

Episode: Enemy Fire, Invasion


Enemy Aliens - see Internees